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iOptron ZEQ25GT Getting Started, Setup the Mount and Polar Alignment, Initial Star Alignment

Models: ZEQ25GT

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4. Getting Started

In order to experience the full GOTO capability of GOTONOVA® technology it is very important to set up the mount correctly before observation.

4.1. Setup the Mount and Polar Alignment

Assemble your ZEQ25 mount according to Section 3.2. Turn the mount power switch on. When the GPS receiver is connected to satellites, LCD will display GPS OK. The mount will have correct time and site information. You can also enter them manually as described before. Mount an OTA and accessories, and carefully balance the mount around the polar axis. Polar align you mount using either Quick Polar Alignment or BrightStar Polar Alignment Procedure.

The default position for the mount is the Zero Position, when the mount is powered on: the counterweight shaft is pointing to ground, telescope is at the highest position with its axis parallel to the polar axis and the telescope is pointing to the North Celestial Pole, if you are located in northern hemisphere.

4.2. Manual Operation of the Mount

You may observe astronomical objects using the arrow keys of a Go2Nova® hand controller.

Flip the I/O switch on the telescope mount to turn on the mount. Use ►,◄,▼ or ▲ buttons to point the telescope to the desired object. Use the number keys to change the slewing speed. Then press STOP/0 button to start tracking.

4.3. Initial Star Alignment

Perform a simple one star alignment/synchronization after set up the hand controller to correct any pointing discrepancy of the Zero Position and to improve the GOTO accuracy.

To perform “One Star Align,” press MENU button, scroll down to “Align”, select “One Star Align” and press ENTER. The screen will display a list of bright objects for you to select from. Select an object using ▲ or ▼ key. Then press ENTER. After the mount slews to the target, use the arrow keys to center it in your eyepiece. Then press ENTER. (More align details in 5.4)

An alternate way is to perform “Sync to Target.” Press the MENU button, select “Select and Slew” and press ENTER. Browse over the catalogs and select an object, such as “Stars” Æ“Named stars” Æ140 (Polaris), and press ENTER. After the mount slews to Polaris, press the MENU button, scroll down to “Sync. To Target”, follow the on-screen instruction to center Polaris and press ENTER. You may need to use the number keys to change the slewing speed to make the centering procedure easier.

4.4. Go to the Moon and Other Stars

After performing these set-ups the mount is ready to GOTO and track objects. One of the most common objects is the Moon.

To slew to the Moon press the MENU button. Select “Select and Slew” by pressing the ENTER button. Select “Solar System”, and use the ▲ or ▼ buttons to select Moon. Press ENTER. The telescope will automatically slew to the Moon and lock on it. It will automatically begin to track once it locks on. If the Moon is not centered in your eyepiece, use the arrow keys to center the Moon. Or for better performance use “Sync to Target.”

You may also select other bright celestial objects to start with, such as Jupiter or Saturn.

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iOptron ZEQ25GT instruction manual Getting Started, Setup the Mount and Polar Alignment, Manual Operation of the Mount
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ZEQ25GT specifications

The iOptron ZEQ25GT is a highly regarded telescope mount that integrates advanced technologies and user-friendly features, making it a top choice for both amateur astronomers and seasoned stargazers. Its design focuses on portability, versatility, and precision, which are essential for anyone looking to explore the night sky.

One of the standout characteristics of the ZEQ25GT is its exceptionally lightweight and compact design. Weighing just 27 pounds, it is one of the lightest mounts in its class, allowing for easy transport and setup at various observing locations. Despite its lightweight form, the mount supports a significant payload capacity of up to 28 pounds, allowing users to attach a variety of telescopes and imaging equipment.

The mount's innovative design incorporates a unique "Hybrid" mount architecture, which combines features of both German and fork mounts. This enables a more streamlined setup and better balance during observation sessions. Additionally, the ZEQ25GT employs a patented design where the counterweight shaft is positioned above the mount. This design eliminates the need for a long counterweight bar, further enhancing portability and reducing setup time.

In terms of technology, the ZEQ25GT features iOptron’s renowned GoTo system, which provides users with access to a database of over 200,000 celestial objects. The system is equipped with dual-axis tracking and ultra-quiet servo motors, ensuring smooth and precise movement when tracking celestial objects. The built-in GPS allows for quick and accurate location setup, making it easy for users to begin their astronomical adventures with minimal delay.

Moreover, the ZEQ25GT includes an innovative SmartStar technology, enabling automatic alignment and calibration. This feature is particularly beneficial for newcomers, as it simplifies the setup process and reduces the learning curve associated with equatorial mounts. Users can control the mount via a hand controller or through a computer interface using iOptron's iControl app for smart devices, offering additional flexibility and convenience.

Durability is another important aspect of the ZEQ25GT, constructed from high-quality materials that ensure longevity and reliability. Its solid aluminum body not only contributes to its lightweight nature but also assures stability during use, which is crucial for astrophotography and high-magnification observations.

In conclusion, the iOptron ZEQ25GT is a cutting-edge telescope mount that combines portability, advanced technology, and user-friendly features, making it an excellent choice for astronomers at all levels. Its innovative design, robust performance, and ease of use truly set it apart in the competitive landscape of astronomical equipment.